13 Best Washington State Wineries to Visit

Washington State’s popularity as a producer of top-quality wine has been increasing for years. In just the last ten years, Washington wine’s reputation has increased dramatically, from the everyday priced whites and reds to wines that benefit from years of cellaring. It’s an area that is growing.

Whether you love cheap but delicious Riesling or the spicy and delicious Syrah, Washington seems to be a top performer in both. State-owned producers even excel in Merlot, which isn’t the wine that has gained its place in this country’s sought-after world of fine wine.

Alongside the rise of the wine industry in the state, The options for serious wine lovers and visitors on a casual basis have also increased. The ten restaurants below have excellent customer service and fantastic wine. All you need to do is book an appointment (in some instances) and arrive thirsty.

Charles Smith/K Vintners

Former rock group manager and wine expert Charles Smith produces a range of wines, from premium to commonplace drinking (like Kung Fu Girl and Red Devil, controlled by Constellation and three others). The tasting rooms he has are an industrial-chic space that was converted into a Doctor Pepper bottling plant located in the Georgetown region of Seattle, as well as an old automotive repair service in downtown Walla Walla and the K Vintners outpost located near Walla Walla on a 19th-century farmstead.

Cave B Estate

Cave B Estate has a gorgeous Woodinville tasting space; however, for the best experience and the stunning views of the Cliff that is 900 feet high, and the Gorge theater, a natural venue for music, You must travel to Quincy in about two and one-half hours away. The good news is that it’s well worth the drive, especially if attending an event; the swarming wine pourers and a pizza truck can keep you well-hydrated and full. In addition, if your party is smaller than six, it doesn’t require you to make a reservation.

Barnard Griffin

It’s possibly the only winery you’ll visit with an art glass academy attached. Rob Griffin’s pioneering efforts throughout eastern Washington have resulted in some of the best state wines at a bargain. The entry-level Cabernet Sauvignon is an incredible value and is available for tasting at three tasting rooms in Richland, Vancouver, and Woodinville. The wife of Rob is Deborah Barnard, a fused-glass artist who enhances the learning experience through the”DB” Studio and Gallery.

Chateau Ste. Michelle

The Washington giant is among the world’s most reliable big producers, and it has some noteworthy wines to be found across the range. The Seattle Hospitality Center in the suburb of Woodinville is the center of Washington tourism to wine. It offers numerous tours and tastings, such as Winemaker for a Day and a concert series in the summer with private cabanas and others.

Col Solare

The joint venture of Chateau Ste. Michelle and Tuscany’s renowned Marchesi Antinori is in an elegant winery worthy of a magazine in a vast Wild West landscape on a slope of Red Mountain. The winery’s top offering is a well-worn red made of Cab-based grapes, and the winery’s Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc are not to be overlooked.

Columbia Crest

Ste. Michelle’s sister winery is renowned for its bargains on Bordeaux-style reds and Chardonnays. However, the Reserve-tier wines made within the Petit Chai “winery within the winery” can also be stunning. The winery is located in Paterson and is situated on the banks of its view over the Columbia River; it offers daily self-guided tours and guided tours that are free during weekends, with reservations. Make a reservation in advance for an experience with wine and food tasting experience ($25).

DeLille Cellars

One of the most well-known state wineries in suburban Woodinville produces a range of age-worthy Bordeaux and wine styles based on the Rhone. They are sold with the DeLille label Single Vineyard wines made of Red Mountain beneath Grand Ciel and Metier, highlighting the abundance of the fruit from Columbia Valley. The Woodinville tasting room has many options, including library tastings, mixing sessions, tastings in the patio, and many more -regardless of how engaging the experience you’re seeking.

Master Sommelier Greg Harrington pursued his dream of leaving Manhattan and exploring his vineyards in Walla Walla. He has built up a devoted clientele for his delicate and balanced wines…though only 8,000 cases are made annually! The cozy tasting room is a must for anyone who loves the top red wines of the world. Appointments are highly recommended and are available anytime between Tuesday and Saturday.

Hedges Family Estate

Hedges was a Red Mountain pioneer, and their lush, dense reds were the main route through which many passionate Washington wine lovers first walked. Their Red Mountain vineyards are CCOF and Demeter certified, placing them in the top echelon of eco-friendly producers. Their wines are excellent evocations of what makes Red Mountain a particular area to cultivate grapes. Hedges also produces Columbia Valley wines under the CMS label, which includes the CMS label, which consists of Chardonnay and the Cabernet Sauvignon and a red blend that is more than $20. There are walk-ins available when the space permits. However, it is best to schedule an appointment with your visit to the Benton City tasting room from Wednesday until Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hogue Cellars

One of the biggest producers and among the few that have retained Riesling, one of Washington wines’ first successes–as one of the most popular calling cards. Hogue produces three pricing levels for the general public and a fourth tier built by the tiny “Terroir” wines, exclusive to club members and guests in the winery in Prosser.

L’Ecole No. 41

One of Walla Walla’s earliest wines, the family-owned business located in a 1915 schoolhouse is still one of the most popular state bearers. L’Ecole has seen success across its range but is most likely best known for Bordeaux-style reds, a distinctive Semillon, and other things. The winery and tasting room in Lowden is a well-loved place to visit, as is the Walla Walla outpost, L’Ecole Heritage Wine Bar, and L’Ecole Woodinville. You can walk in. However, reservations are suggested.

Mullan Road

It was founded a little more than a decade ago with the help of Dennis Cakebread. Mullan Road is a focus; on Mullanernet Sauvignon and the Red blend that is Bordeaux style. Private tastings are available by appointment only at Mullan Road’s Walla Walla location, though a new tasting event to be open is expected tomorrow. Keep your eyes on their website for further information.

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